11 Legit Ways to Get a Free Laptop

Laptops are an essential part of life in the 21st century. Although laptop costs have decreased, buying one can be a financial struggle. Thankfully, multiple charitable and educational organizations can help you get a free laptop.

You usually need to be a student, military veteran or earn a small income to qualify. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t look even if you don’t meet one of these three requirements. Searching for a free laptop can still a good way to save money this year because they are a large purchase.

Your free laptop probably won’t be the latest model with all the bells and whistles. Though it’s powerful enough to use the internet, complete schoolwork, and maybe start a side hustle.

Where to Find Free Laptops

We all like finding free stuff online. Finding a free laptop online can be one of your best finds.

For most people, applying online from one of the legit organizations listed below is the best chance of getting a free laptop. This is because they accept donated laptops from across the country and they can distribute them across the country.

Local non-profits not listed here might also offer free laptops. Though it depends on the city you live in and how many donated computers they receive. It’s a matter of supply and demand.

1. With Causes

You can apply for assistance on the With Causes website. If they have any computers available, you might be able to receive it.

Even if With Causes doesn’t have a free laptop right now, they might be able to help in another way. Other forms of aid including vehicle repair and pediatric care financial assistance.

2. Computers With Causes

Submitting a request with Computers With Causes is another valid option. You will need to explain why you need a free laptop. And you will need to go through a background and reference check.

Computers with Causes takes these additional steps because they receive many requests. They want to ensure those most in need receive help first.

3. Komputers 4 R Kids

Living in southern California and having children means you qualify to receive a Komputers 4 R Kids desktop bundle.

You will receive a desktop PC, monitor, keyboard and all necessary cables to get started. This isn’t a free laptop but it’s still free technology.

It’s possible to have a computer at your home. But Komputers 4 R Kids also donates computers to schools and other non-profit organizations.

4. On It Foundation

The On It Foundation relies on donations to distribute free computers. They also provide training and internet access to low-income families with students in grades K-12. The students must also receive free or reduced school lunch and attend a public school.

You will be put on the waiting list if a free computer isn’t available at this time.

5. Alliance for Technology Refurbishing and Reuse

The Alliance for Technology Refurbishing and Reuse partners with nonprofit refurbishers and recyclers across the United States. You can browse their interactive map to see if they have a partner near you. If so, you can ask if they offer free or discounted laptops.

6. Soldiers’ Angels

Soldier’s Angels distributes laptops with Dragon speech recognition software to veterans. These laptops can be a boon for disabled vets that struggle to use a regular keyboard.

This is a “full circle” aid program that helps in more ways than providing free laptops. The currently deployed, veterans and military families can request different types of aid.

7. Free Laptops for College

If you’re a rising college student, you might apply to a school offering free laptops. Of course, you should compare the total tuition costs to colleges that don’t offer free laptops. The tradeoff for a free laptop can be borrowing thousands of more dollars each year.

If a college offers free laptops or iPads, also see if they charge a special technology fee. Even if you don’t pay for the device upfront, the college recoups the device cost in technology fees.

It’s possible you can buy a decent laptop for less than $500 that lasts all four years for most students. Let that price be your benchmark when deciding which school to attend.

Several well-known colleges that offer free laptops include:

Bethel UniversityUndergraduate students enrolling in the College of Arts and Sciences or the College of Professional Studies receive a Chromebook.

Seton Hill UniversityTraditional full-time undergrad students get a MacBook and iPad. Select graduate student programs can receive a MacBook or iPad.

Wake ForestStudents receiving a needs-based, merit or athletic scholarship funds from Wake Forest can qualify for a technology grant for a Dell XPS 13.

Each college has differing free laptop policies. Some schools provide free laptops to all full-time students. Other colleges only issue them to students in select degree programs or if they receive financial aid.

If you don’t qualify for a free laptop, your college might offer discounted laptops instead. You have to pay for your laptop, but they can be cheaper than buying one with similar specs from a retail store.

8. Salvation Army

Local private charities offer different types of physical aid to help people in need. The Salvation Army is one such organization with a local chapter that might have a free laptop.

If not, the Salvation Army is known for other assistance programs that help people with a small income. For instance, they might be able to provide food, gas or heating bill assistance too.

You can also ask other local charities or thrift stores for leads as well.

9. Freecycle

You can request a free laptop on your local Freecycle board. Another Freecycle member might be willing to give you one or trade. Because these laptops probably aren’t going through a certified refurbishing program, be extra cautious.

Verify with the current owner if the laptop has any problems or needs repairs. Knowing about these issues before you accept it can prevent unplanned repair expenses later.

Making sure the hard drive has been reformatted before you start using it is a good safety measure too. Reformatting your drive erases the old user’s information and can remove any viruses or malware on the hard drive.

10. National Cristina Foundation

The National Cristina Foundation can be a better option if you are an organization needing new laptops. In fact, Cristina has been helping donors and organizations in need for 30 years. You can register your non-profit listing your technology needs for free.

Once you find a donor, you can arrange the delivery details with them instead of Cristina.

11. World Computer Exchange

Most free laptop groups cater exclusively to the United States. The World Computer Exchange is one of those exceptions. They donate computers to public places in developing countries to connect youth up to age 24 to the internet.

If you meet these relatively strict qualifications, submit an application.

Almost-Free Laptops

Some organizations charge a small fee to provide laptops. Although you have to pay money, you can still find a good deal. You can still save hundreds of dollars compared to buying a brand new laptop from your local retail store.

1. Computer Technology Assistance Corps

Laptops start at $125 and computers at $68. Make sure you check their specials on the application as you might find a better deal. In February 2019, it was possible to get two different laptop models for either $78 or $95. Both of these models are below the $125 starting point.

2. PCs for People

You might also qualify for a discounted laptop from PCs for People. First, see if you meet one of these two eligibility conditions:

Your annual income is at least 200% below the poverty level

Currently enrolled in an income-based government assistance program

If you qualify, a basic laptop starts at $50. But you will need to pay more than $150 to get one with more features. For instance, the best laptops start at $150 and come with Microsoft Office installed and the performance specs that rival laptops in the $300 to $600 range.

3. Jump On It

Jump On It is the discount laptop side of the On It Foundation that issues free laptops. You should see if the On It Foundation can provide a free laptop first. If not, Jump On It provides refurbished laptops starting at $99.

You will also need to pay an additional $25 shipping fee for your laptop.

If you can’t afford to purchase the laptop today, Jump On It provides a free layaway program. Each week, you pay at least $15 until you can purchase the laptop. You will also need to pay an additional $25 shipping fee for your laptop.

4. Connect All

Non-profits and low-income households can buy discount laptops at Connect All. These laptops start at $129 and shipping is free within the continental United States. All computers have Microsoft Windows and Office installed.

It’s also possible to get discount wifi hotspot access. The current offer is $11.95 monthly for unlimited access to the Sprint LTE Plus network. There’s also the one-time cost of $99 to purchase the mobile hotspot modem.

5. Everyone On

Everyone On is a non-profit that matches you with other discount computer and internet offers. Enter your zip code and select any government assistance programs that you qualify for. Based on your responses, Everyone On provides a list of vendors offering discount computers.

6. Comcast Internet Essentials

If you live in a Comcast service area, you can get a $150 laptop or computer with their Internet Essentials program. All laptops are refurbished and include Microsoft Office and a 90-day warranty.

There are three different models available with different screen sizes and features. You also have the option of choosing one with a DVD drive and a webcam. Two of the three models are also wifi-ready so you can connect a wifi-hotspots.

To qualify for these discount laptops, you must meet one of these qualifications:

Your child is eligible for the National School Lunch Program

You receive HUD housing assistance

Are a low-income verified veteran

Are a low-income senior

Attend community college in Colorado or Illinois

Besides a discounted laptop, you can also get discount home internet access.

7. Northwest Access Fund

Residents of Washington (state) should visit the Northwest Access Fund to find low-cost computers. There are several organizations that serve Washington and the greater Seattle area. You will see resources from national programs and regionally-based assistance programs too.

8. Microsoft Registered Refurbisher

Unlike other discount programs listed here, prices can vary because you’re most likely dealing with private computer stores. These stores might not receive donated computer which means they need to charge more to remain in business.

9. Notebooks for Students

This idea can be a better option than attending a college offering free laptops. Students of all ages can find discounted laptops on Notebooks for Students.

While most discount laptops are Windows or Chromebooks, you can also find discount Apple products. It’s possible to buy iPads, MacBook and MacBook Pro devices. As usual, Apple devices tend to cost more than their PC counterparts.

10. Ebay or Amazon

Both Ebay and Amazon sell used and refurbished laptops. When you buy from any third-party seller, you may have to perform additional repairs. Make sure you read the entire product description to review the laptop condition and any warranty protection.

11. Craigslist

If you don’t like buying computers online because you can’t physically inspect before buying, Craigslist can be your best option. Laptops can be as cheap or expensive as you desire. Once you find one you like and can afford, schedule a meeting and bring enough cash to buy it.

It’s also possible to find free laptops. Some of these laptops work properly, but most free ones will need some repairs. Factor in the repair costs before buying.

12. Best Buy

Going to a big box retailer might be the last place to consider for discount laptops. However, Best Buy sells refurbished laptops starting at $100. You also don’t need to be a low-income household to qualify for these deals.

Some of the other vendors mentioned here can still offer laptops for similar prices. But if you don’t qualify for these discounts, buying refurbished from Best Buy can be a good alternative.

To find the best selection of refurbished laptops, browse their online catalog as some deals might be online only.

13. Dell Refurbished

One of the leading laptop producers is Dell. Their Dell Refurbished store sells discount laptops and Dell devices. The prices are competitive with other national retailers.

For one piece of advice, some of the cheapest laptops don’t come with an operating system preinstalled. Unless you have a copy of Windows or Linux at home, plan on spending approximately $139 to install Windows 10 Pro.

Tip: Use Ebates to get extra cash back on your online purchases including Dell Refurbished.

14. Buy a Laptop with Gift Cards

One peculiar way to get a laptop is by redeeming gift cards. If you’re willing to trade your time to get a laptop, you will like this idea. It’s also a good idea to pursue when you don’t need a laptop right away.

A good starting place is online survey sites. For each survey you answer, you earn reward points. Then you redeem your points for gift cards to electronics stores that sell laptops.

If the survey site pays you through PayPal instead of gift cards, simply set aside those earnings to buy a laptop.

Pay Attention to Free Laptop Surveys

Although there are many legit survey sites, still be on the lookout for scams. If you see survey offers that appear to give you a laptop with a few brief surveys, it might be a scam. Other offers require you to enroll in product samples and cancel your subscription before the free trial period ends to avoid paying subscription fees.

Some of these offers are legit but they’re not 100% free. You might have to pay a signup fee to test products or services. Then, you must cancel during the trial period to avoid paying an ongoing subscription fee.

Regarding the laptop survey, the site may require you to publish a 500-word written review and video review.

It’s possible you will still pay a lot less than the laptop’s retail price, but you will still need to make a small monetary investment.

Avoid Free Laptop Scams

As you see, there are several legit ways to get a free laptop. But you must be careful about which website you use to request a free laptop. The prospect of not having to spend hundreds of dollars on a laptop means there are plenty of scams.

Before you submit your personal information to get a laptop, look for these clues to build a trust factor:

They have a phone number or email address you can contact

They don’t ask for your social security number or online passwords

You can read the terms and conditions to look for any hidden fees

All expenses are clearly detailed

There are positive reviews online or with TrustPilot

It’s also a good idea to avoid websites with many spelling errors or lacks a lot of information about how their laptop program works.

You should also follow these suggestions when buying a discounted laptop. Only buy from a trustworthy vendor. Try communicating with them at least once before you pay. If you don’t feel comfortable completing the transaction, then stay away.

Whether you qualify for a free laptop or have to get a discounted one, don’t submit an application unless you trust the organization.

Summary

It’s possible to get a free laptop online or through local organizations. Even getting a deeply discounted laptop can make a difference as you save hundreds of dollars. This gift can open doors of opportunity to boost your income and learn new skills.

How do you plan on using your new laptop? Let us know by leaving a comment on our Facebook page.